The third Yama we are covering this week is Asteya. This translates to “non-stealing”.

Ever since I can remember I have loved to steal. The first time I ever stole anything it was from my best friend Jessie. I was in early grade school. Jessie lived three houses down from me. As my mom was cooking dinner I pulled a marble out of my pocket to show and tell my mom I had acquired this new marble, Jessie didn’t even know I had taken it! Boy how proud of myself I was! Mom made me walk back to the house to return it and apologize for stealing. I was so mortified I felt sick. I was so angry.

I went on to have a stealing spree until I was in my mid twenties. However, I didn’t steal from my friends anymore. It was all companies so it was ok right?! I stole items stores and work. I stole money. I didn’t have a care about it.

It wasn’t until I got sober that I quit stealing….from stores and employment that is.

Since starting Ashtanga many years ago, I’ve had to look at my life and see how I can apply Asteya to all areas of my life.

Am I stealing other’s time – am I constantly late? Am I letting greed get the best of me and taking more than I need? Am I taking credit for someone else’s work or idea? Am I taking their job by either trying to do it better or because I think I am doing them a favor? Am I paying fairly for things or am I just trying to get a good deal? And what about our Earth – am I taking what is not being given to me? Is it possible to steal other’s happiness, joy, and innocence?

These are just examples of questions I try to ask myself. I know there are many, many more and this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to non-stealing. Since I am only about 13 years old in my non-stealing life. Can you believe I’ve been sober for THIRTEEN YEARS this year?! WOW.

If there are any areas in which you practice this yourself, I’d love to read them in the comments.

Thank you for being patient as I was unable to post last week. I’m looking forward to finishing up the first limb of Ashtanga, the Yama. Remember there are 5 Yamas, in the first limb and 8 limbs altogether.

I honor and respect you. I am privileged to share this journey.